1976 Citroen CX vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1976 Citroen CX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1976 Citroen CX. (128 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1976 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Citroen CX weights approximately 181 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Citroen CX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Citroen CX. (197 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Citroen CX | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CX | 280 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2347 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 64 L |
